SPY PICS: Audi RS 5 cabriolet

Audi is preparing a drop-top version of the barnstorming RS 5 coupe that is expected to be introduced to world markets in 2012.

The prototype RS 5 cabriolet snapped recently by Carparazzi at the Nurburgring in Germany doesn’t seem to embrace all the details (including the dual-exhaust rear apron) of the facelifted RS 5 coupe that was displayed at this year’s Frankfurt motor show, but you can bet they will appear on the final product.

Changes to the coupe unveiled at Frankfurt included the grille, lower bumper area, bonnet, tail lights and rear apron, all aimed at giving the red-blooded RS 5 a more aggressive look to separate it from its more mundane S5 stablemate.

A normally aspirated 4.2-litre V8 under the bonnet delivers 331kW and 430Nm, and is able to spin out to better than 8000rpm. The coupe claims zero to 100km/h acceleration in 4.6 seconds and the RS 5 coupe is electronically governed to 250km/h although Audi will increase that on request to 280km/h if the customer requires. It could be expected the cabrio version will deliver similar performance.

The three-differential, Quattro all-wheel drive RS 5 uses the corporate VW-Audi seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and runs on forged aluminium 19-inch wheels wearing 265/35 tyres.

The RS 5 coupe also gets brakes able to cope with the performance. Eight-piston front callipers grabbing 365mm discs are standard, although the coupe – and most likely cabriolet - offers the option of fibre-ceramic front discs.

It's also anticipated the cabriolet will offer the RS 5 coupe’s comfort, auto and dynamic operational modes that modify elements such as steering, transmission and accelerator response.

— with Carparazzi

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